1
Consultation
An initial consultation is the first step in any treatment journey. During the appointment, you will discuss your medical history with your fertility doctor, who will also tell you more about the treatment types and answer your questions.
2
Blood tests, sperm analysis and investigations
Some blood tests and investigations will be required to ensure IVF is a suitable treatment for you. These typically include a hormonal profile test, ovarian reserve test and an ultrasound scan. Similarly, a semen analysis will be conducted to confirm the quality of the sperm being used. There are lots of additional tests which our doctors can also recommend should it be appropriate, for example for those who have had unsuccessful treatment in the past. Once your test results are back, you will discuss the results with your doctor and plan the treatment.
3
Ovarian preparation
For ovarian preparation you will undergo a course of medication and monitoring which will help ensure the best possible results. During this period, you will have scans and blood tests to ensure the best possible outcome.
4
Egg collection
Having monitored your blood and scan results, your doctor will decide when the optimal time is to collect your eggs. The procedure involves collecting eggs from the woman’s ovaries using a needle that is passed through the vagina and into each ovary under ultrasound guidance and deep sedation. On the day of the egg collection, the eggs will be fertilised with sperm in the laboratory.
5
Embryo development
Once fertilised, embryos typically develop for 5 to 6 days prior to transfer or freezing. Our highly experienced embryologists are in constant contact with you during this time to update you on your embryo’s development.
6
Embryo transfer
During the embryo transfer, one or two embryos will be transferred with a thin catheter back to the uterus. The procedure is simple and takes less than 10 minutes.
There are two ways to transfer the embryo: fresh or frozen embryo transfer. Either the embryo can be transferred back to the uterus five days after the egg collection procedure, or the embryo(s) can be frozen and thawed for transfer at a later date.
7
Pregnancy test
9 days after your embryo transfer, you will take a pregnancy test which will confirm the results of your treatment. Whatever the outcome our team of doctors, embryologists, nurses and counsellors will be on hand to support you in your next steps.